VW Jetta MKIV – Air Filter Change DIY
What a difference between the new air filter (left) and the old one (right).
An air filter is an important part of a car’s intake system, because it is through the air filter that the engine “breathes.” An engine needs an exact mixture of fuel and air in order to run, and all of the air enters the system first through the air filter. The air filter’s purpose is to filter out dirt and other foreign particles in the air, preventing them from entering the system and possibly damaging the engine.
A clean air filter is important for your car’s performance. This means that your air filter should be changed regularly, or your gas mileage will suffer. A dirty air filter can also cause other systems to run ineffectively, such as your emissions control system, which regulates the car’s air-fuel mixture. A dirty air filter can also cause your spark plugs, which ignite the fuel in the combustion chambers, to foul, as there will be too much fuel without enough air; if your spark plugs foul, you may have problems keeping your car running.
FRAM Jetta Air Filter Part Number CA8602.
Air Filter: FRAM CA8602
Cost: $23 at Parts Source (taxes extra)
Tools required: a screw driver
Time needed: 10 minutes
Steps:
1. The air filter box is located at the driver side, right behind the battery (if you stand in front of the vehicle).
Loosen the two screws located at the top end. Don’t worry about removing the screws completely as they will remain on the cover when loosened.
2. At the bottom of the cover, there are four plastic clips that keep the cover in place. Push the cover forward (towards the windshield) to open the cover.
3. Under the plastic cover, you will see the dirty air filter. Note the orientation of the existing filter. Remove the filter carefully and clean up the dirt in the surrounding area.
4. Insert the new filter, and make sure the four edges of the filter are fully tucked in by gently pushing the filter down on the edges. Otherwise, the cover may not close properly.
5. Slide the cover in place by aligning it with the four plastic clips, then push it towards the battery (toward yourself). The clips are locked properly if you hear a “click”. Tighten the two screws and that’s it!
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